What Is Osteomyelitis?
4. Risk Factors
Conditions that compromise the immune system, making it more difficult for your body to fight off infection, can put you at greater risk for osteomyelitis. HIV is one example; another is uncontrolled diabetes. The risk of osteomyelitis is greater in people with diabetes because it often causes ulcers in the skin of the feet through which bacteria can get in and infect the bones of the lower extremity.
You may be at greater risk for bacteria entering your body if you have a condition requiring frequent catheterization, such as kidney disease. You could also be at greater risk if you have recently had orthopedic surgery or use illicit drugs intravenously.
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